NIGERIA – The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has issued a stern warning to property owners, agents, and private occupiers against illegal waste scavenging and unlicensed recycling activities.
The agency emphasized that offenders would be prosecuted under the state’s Environmental Laws.
LAWMA’s Managing Director, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, stated that indiscriminate waste sorting, dumping, and trading of recyclables not only degrade the city’s aesthetic appeal but also pose significant environmental hazards.
He urged residents to utilize only licensed recycling facilities and registered waste collectors to ensure proper waste management.
“Any individual or entity engaging in illegal recycling or scavenging will face strict enforcement measures and penalties as prescribed by law,” Gbadegesin warned.
He further cautioned that property owners allowing unauthorized recycling activities risk having their property rights revoked and facing legal consequences.
LAWMA and LAGESC dislodge illegal occupants
In a related development, a joint enforcement team comprising LAWMA’s Monitoring and Compliance Department and the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) has dislodged squatters and illegal recyclers from the Ijora-Olopa underbridge in a bid to sanitize the area.
Gbadegesin assured that enforcement exercises would continue across the state, aligning with the government’s zero-tolerance policy for environmental degradation.
“There will be no hiding place for those determined to undermine LAWMA’s efforts,” he stated.
To curb illegal waste disposal, LAWMA has ramped up night surveillance operations, ensuring offenders are identified and prosecuted. Gbadegesin noted that LAWMA’s surveillance and enforcement teams operate round the clock, tracking individuals who violate waste management regulations.
Recent arrests underscore LAWMA’s intensified enforcement efforts against illegal waste disposal in Lagos.
The agency has been actively tracking and apprehending offenders to curb environmental violations and ensure compliance with waste management regulations.
Early this month, LAWMA’s enforcement team apprehended Engineer Akinsola for illegally dumping waste at a road median near Micom Bus Stop on Egbeda-Akowonjo Road.
Upon questioning, Akinsola falsely claimed to be a police officer. However, further investigation revealed that his residence lacked a designated waste storage facility and was not registered with an authorized waste collector.
He later admitted that his landlord had instructed him to dispose of the waste illegally. As a result, he is now facing prosecution.
This arrests reflect LAWMA’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a cleaner Lagos by ensuring strict adherence to waste disposal regulations.
The agency continues to urge residents to comply with proper waste management practices to avoid legal consequences.
Additionally, LAWMA’s Waste Infractions Surveillance and Investigation Team responded to complaints about illegal dumping at Abati Primary School, Shasha Road, where over 25 individuals were apprehended, including six vehicle owners who used their cars to transport and dump waste.
Public awareness and compliance campaign
Beyond enforcement, LAWMA is intensifying its public sensitization efforts, conducting door-to-door campaigns to educate residents on proper waste disposal.
Gbadegesin urged Lagosians to report waste collection challenges to LAWMA rather than resorting to illegal dumping, particularly at night.
“We remain committed to achieving a cleaner and more sustainable Lagos, but we need the cooperation of all residents,” he stressed.
As Lagos continues its battle against environmental pollution, LAWMA’s efforts signal a strong stance against illegal waste practices, ensuring a healthier and cleaner city for all.
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